In the realm of classical music, where tradition often holds sway, an intriguing partnership is quietly taking shape. Classeek, in collaboration with the International Classical Music Awards (ICMA), is proud to introduce an exciting venture featuring two accomplished ICMA award recipients: Ivan Boumans and Marc-André. This project, developed in tandem with Remy Franck from ICMA and Classeek, seeks to breathe fresh life into the double bass—an instrument that has long lingered in the background of solo performances—while exploring new musical landscapes and enriching its repertoire.

Let’s explore what has gone into the making of this project so far, and learn more about the two musical talents at its core. Click here to visit the GoFundMe to support this project!

The Significance of the Double Bass

© Karol Sokolowski

The double bass, often typecast as a supporting instrument, possesses a resonance and depth that forms the backbone of many musical compositions. However, its potential as a solo instrument remains largely unexplored.

In this venture, Ivan and Marc-André are embarking on a mission to unveil the full spectrum of this majestic instrument. Through Ivan’s carefully crafted compositions, the goal of the concerto is to demonstrate that the double bass is not merely an accompaniment, but a powerful soloist in its own right.

It’s largely uncharted territory in the world of classical music, and very exciting as a result. It is a chance to create new work, new soundscapes, and new possibilities for an instrument that has long been underestimated.

About the Project

As this undertaking unfolds, it opens a door to a captivating exploration of the double bass, guided by the musical expertise of a composer whose commissions have been performed across continents. Ivan’s dedication to uncovering the instrument's hidden potential will form the cornerstone of this ambitious concerto. Standing alongside him is Marc-André, recognized for producing a sound on the double bass that is described as both exquisite and elegant.

This unique pairing was masterminded by Remy Franck, President of ICMA, who said: “When Marc-André told me he was looking to get a new concerto for double bass and orchestra, I immediately thought of bringing him together with our Composer Award winner Ivan Boumans. With the chemistry between both musicians now functioning well, my colleagues and I look forward to making this project a big success.”

With a shared commitment to pushing boundaries, the two are embarking on a collaborative journey set to leave a meaningful mark on the classical music landscape. Together, they aspire not only to reshape perceptions surrounding the double bass but also to inspire a new wave of musicians and composers.

Get to know Ivan Boumans

© Eric Engel

Born in Madrid in 1983, Ivan Boumans' musical journey began at the Cuenca Music Conservatory, where he studied piano and clarinet. In 1998, he relocated to Luxembourg, his father's homeland, and promptly enrolled at the Luxembourg Music Conservatory, expanding his musical horizons. During his time there, amidst studies encompassing piano, organ, music history, chamber music, and more, Ivan discovered his passion for music theory.

Subsequently, he gained admission to the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique et Danse de Paris (CNSMDP). His studies at CNSMDP embraced Harmony, Fugue, Counterpoint, XXth Century Music Writing, Orchestration, Analysis, and Conducting. Ivan's dedicated efforts culminated in a Master's Diploma in Music Writing in June 2011. Encouraged by Luxembourg's vibrant music scene, he has flourished as a freelance composer and conductor since 1999.

His extensive portfolio boasts over 170 compositions spanning various genres, including chamber music, film scores, and symphonic pieces. His creations have resonated across Europe, the USA, China, and Russia, interpreted by esteemed ensembles like the Luxembourg Philharmonic Orchestra and the Orchestre National de France.

Having received the ICMA Composer Award in 2020, Ivan currently imparts his expertise in the Music Theory Department at the Luxembourg Music Conservatory. His teaching pursuits harmonize seamlessly with his freelancing endeavors in composition and conducting.

Reflecting on his inspiration for composing a concerto for the double bass, Ivan aptly states, "Too often the double bass is considered as an accompanying instrument. However, it is an instrument that offers many more possibilities than one might think. The project of composing a concerto for double bass is not only a composer's challenge but also the opportunity to highlight an instrument that is not known at its fair value."

Get to know Marc-André

© Marc-André

A vanguard in classical music, Marc-André continually pushes boundaries, showcasing a talent that is both fresh and eager. This French double bassist stands as the inaugural recipient of the ICMA Classeek Award. In April 2023, Marc-André was awarded with the title and delivered a remarkable performance alongside the NFM Philharmonic under the baton of Giancarlo Guerrero at the ICMA Gala Concert in Wrocław.

Infused with an ardent ambition to reshape the classical music landscape, Marc-André's musical expression is described as "the most exquisite and elegant sound on the double bass." His profound musicality, combined with missionary zeal, propels him to transcend boundaries in concertos and chamber music to his audiences’ delight.

Born in Vienna in 2002, Marc-André's formative years in the city of music, coupled with a family of musicians, fueled his passion for his craft. His musical journey was a natural evolution, leading him to become a musician dedicated to breaking new ground.

His impact extends beyond traditional concert halls, reaching millions through social media. Blending the worlds of fashion and music, Marc-André cultivates a diverse and expansive fan base. He's marked his presence with notable achievements, such as winning the Swiss "Rahn Musikpreis" competition at the age of 19, securing the Anton Bruckner First prize from the Vienna Symphony Orchestra, and garnering awards from esteemed competitions in Slovakia and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra's Angelika-Prokopp Summer Academy.

His chosen instrument, a double bass crafted by Martin Stoß in Vienna in 1827, is generously provided by a private Austrian sponsor. Looking ahead to this collaboration, Marc-André noted: “My biggest goal in life has always been to push beyond boundaries and to do something that has never been done before. As a performer, I find it my duty to work with composers of today in order to help create the history of music and show to the world how this underestimated instrument is able to sound.”

© Karol Sokolowski

Join us on this Journey

This collaboration was born out of Marc-André's quest to find a composer to help him commission a new work for the double bass and bring the instrument to life in its own right. Remy Franck, President of ICMA, recognized the potential synergy between Marc-André and Ivan, setting the stage for a project that promises to leave an indelible mark on the classical music landscape.

Would you like to support this project as it takes flight? Your contribution will directly support the creative process, from composer fees to the premiere performance. Together, we'll not only celebrate the talents of Ivan and Marc-André but also advance the legacy of the double bass in classical music.

Visit our GoFundMe page to learn more about the project and contribute to this groundbreaking collaboration.